SENATOR Manny Pacquiao has vowed to address various issues affecting the poor during the release of two policemen held captive by the New People's Army in the hinterland Barangay Calapagan in Lupon, Davao Oriental, on August 26.
Pacquiao facilitated the safe release of Chief Inspector Arnold Ongachen, station commander of Governor Generoso police station, and PO1 Michael Grande of Banaybanay police who were abducted by the NPA in separate operations last May and June, respectively.
In his speech at the turnover of the two captives, the senator said he was thankful that he was able to hear the different concerns of residents in the area.
"Nagpasalamat ko ug dako nga nadunggan nako ang muloug problema nga dapat maaksyunan jud na ilabi na sa atong mga pamilya nga naapektuhan, labina tung pamilya na nabutang-butangan ug sala nga wala man diay sala (I am thankful that I have heard your concerns that need to be addressed especially the families affected, and those who have been charged, despite the fact that they have done nothing wrong)," Pacquiao said.
Pacquiao had a brief dialogue with the locals in the area with the presence of Compostela Valley Representative Ruwel Peter Gonzaga, Sarangani Board member lawyer Cyril Yap and also representatives of the NPA.
Pacquiao added that President Rodrigo Duterte knew about his visit and he was given with a blessing by the chief executive to consult with the residents in the area.
"What we want is a peaceful country where the poor people are provided with help. This is also what the President wants and he does not want the poor to be discriminated and this is the cause which we also support," Pacquiao said in vernacular.
The People’s Champ also said that he did not hesitate to accept that invitation to come in the area.
“Ito ang first time (na pumunta ako dito) hindi ako nagdalawang-isip kasi ang pagserbisyo ko ay para sa mahihirap na tao at kung pag-uusapan naman natin ang mga tao na nasa bundok, diyan naman tayo lumaki sa bundok at hindi dapat matakot at mag-worry dahil hangad na man nila ang kapayapaan,” Pacquiao said.